Red Hump Eartheaters (Geophagus steindacneri) take their name from the bright red nuchal hump that is present on dominant mature males, who also develop beautiful blue/green iridescence scales on their sides. A peaceful fish, they grow to a maximum size of 6 inches, with the males being larger than the females.

The sociable Red Hump Geos prefer living in schools of at least four, although a breeding pair also works well together. Immediate maternal mouthbreeders, the females will take the fertilized eggs into her mouth and carry them for 2-3 weeks: until the yolk sacs are absorbed and they are free-swimming. During that time she eats little to no food. Once they are free-swimming, she takes the fry into her mouth only if she senses danger.

They need a soft, sandy substrate floor as they take it into their mouths and sift out the edible morsels. Gravel causes gill damage and should not be used. 

Water Conditions:

5.0 - 8.0 pH

70 - 80 F

2 - 15 KH

Breeding: Captive bred by us.